Computer Science Needed in Space?

[Monster92]

exploration of course :tongue:

So my situation is that I live in England and am about to enter a computer science degree course. How in demand are computer scientist needed for space agencies? I know NASA and the British Space Agency say on their websites that they do take computer scientists. However, is it seldom that a CS grad gets to work for them?

If so, how else can I contribute to science in someway?

 

[chiro]

exploration of course :tongue:

So my situation is that I live in England and am about to enter a computer science degree course. How in demand are computer scientist needed for space agencies? I know NASA and the British Space Agency say on their websites that they do take computer scientists. However, is it seldom that a CS grad gets to work for them?

If so, how else can I contribute to science in someway?

This is speculation just so you know, but from past knowledge of defense programming (ADA), there are very strict protocols that are used when developing software for critical systems like defense products and I guarantee that organizations like NASA also have very strict specifications regarding development especially with regards to embedded systems.

Based on this, I would speculate that from the point of view of developing error-free software, there is a need for computer scientists at least for coming up with frameworks and protocols for developing error-free software.

Hardware-wise defence has strict standards about what kind of hardware is physically used (that is you can't just use the same kind of hardware that you find in your standard consumer products).

If you are interested in the defence side of software development, get a book on Ada or maybe visit a website that has some detailed information.

 

[Monster92]

This is speculation just so you know, but from past knowledge of defense programming (ADA), there are very strict protocols that are used when developing software for critical systems like defense products and I guarantee that organizations like NASA also have very strict specifications regarding development especially with regards to embedded systems.

Based on this, I would speculate that from the point of view of developing error-free software, there is a need for computer scientists at least for coming up with frameworks and protocols for developing error-free software.

Hardware-wise defence has strict standards about what kind of hardware is physically used (that is you can't just use the same kind of hardware that you find in your standard consumer products).

If you are interested in the defence side of software development, get a book on Ada or maybe visit a website that has some detailed information.

Thank you very much for your time. I'm currently investing interest in ADA now that you brought it up.The defence side of software development does seem a path I may like.

 

[mal4mac]

So my situation is that I live in England and am about to enter a computer science degree course. How in demand are computer scientist needed for space agencies? I know NASA and the British Space Agency say on their websites that they do take computer scientists. However, is it seldom that a CS grad gets to work for them?

Can't think of an organisation that uses computers more! So the demand is *great*.

Why not aim to take a specialised MSc, like:

http://www.surrey.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught/space/

Then again, why are doing a computer science BSc in the first place?

Why not do space engineering *now*

http://www.kingston.ac.uk/undergraduate-course/astronautics-space-technology-2012/

 

[Matrix0]

Computer science is definitely needed in space exploration. In fact, it plays a crucial role in many aspects of space missions, from designing and operating spacecrafts, to analyzing and interpreting data collected from space. With the advancement of technology and the increasing complexity of space missions, the demand for computer scientists in space agencies is only going to grow.

While it may be true that not every computer science graduate gets a job at NASA or other space agencies, there are still plenty of opportunities to contribute to the field of space exploration. Many private companies are also involved in space missions and are constantly looking for computer scientists to join their teams. Additionally, there are also research opportunities at universities and other institutions that focus on space science and technology.

If you are passionate about contributing to science in some way, there are many avenues you can explore. You can use your computer science skills to develop software and applications that aid in data analysis and visualization for space missions. You can also work on developing algorithms and systems to help improve spacecraft navigation and communication. Another option is to contribute to the development of artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques that can be used in space exploration.

In addition to technical skills, it is also important to develop a strong understanding of the space industry and the challenges and opportunities it presents. This can be achieved through networking, attending conferences and workshops, and keeping up with the latest developments in the field.

Overall, computer science is a valuable and in-demand field in the space industry. With determination and a passion for space exploration, you can definitely find ways to contribute to this exciting and ever-evolving field.